The 2012-13 Drake track and field squad welcomes new expectations courtesy of 24 new faces. With 24 freshmen, Drake looks to surprise the Missouri Valley Conference faithful in 2013.

Before the State Farm MVC Championship opens on Feb. 22, though, the Bulldogs look to start with a statement at the Iowa State Holiday Preview on Friday in Ames, Iowa. Drake debuts 24 freshmen at the Lied Recreational Center on Friday.

As her Bulldog career winds down, Smith expects Drake’s newcomers to step up.

“Young blood is good because us old ones get tired,” Smith said. “I’m so excited for them.”

Drake’s “young blood” includes freshman Celeste Arteaga. After a successful cross country campaign, Arteaga awaits another chance to improve.

The indoor campaign promises another perk: more Bulldogs. Arteaga rejoins 17 cross country teammates on Friday as she joins 18 new teammates.

“I’m excited to meet everyone else on the team and being with them and hang out with other teammates and get to know other people,” Arteaga said. “We’re a bigger team now, so we’ll all have each other’s backs and support each other.”

The Iowa State Holiday Preview starts at 11 a.m. on Friday in Ames, Iowa.